DID YOU KNOW?

It is estimated that 8 out of 10 dogs roaming the streets of Aruba are actually not “real” strays, but rather have an owner who lets them roam or they “belong to” one or more houses in the neighborhood where people feed them and give them water?

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

If 100% of dog owners were responsible pet owners, we would not have a problem with unwanted animals on the streets of Aruba!

Spay or neuter your dog at around 6 months of age. Did you know that a sterilized dog will guard your home and property better? A sterilized dog is also less likely to develop certain types of cancers.

Take your puppy to the vet to receive multiple vaccinations starting at 6 weeks old. Have your adult dog vaccinated every year. Vaccinations protect your dog from distemper, parvovirus, and other types of diseases.

Protect your dog against heartworm with a heartworm medication, available at veterinary clinics on the island.

Protect your dog against tick disease with an anti-tick remedy, available at veterinary clinics and pet stores.

When you walk with you dog in public, pick up its waste and dispose of it properly.

Make sure your dog is identifiable in case it gets lost. You can do this 3 different ways:

Have your dog chipped at one of the veterinary clinics.

Have your dog tattooed by the vet.

Have a tag made for your dog. A tag can be ordered at any of the vets on the island, Just for Pets, Bestial Pet House, or the Aruba Animal Shelter. Cost is Afl. 15 for a name and telephone number.